History Department

The study of History teaches you perspective, as you come to understand the differences and similarities between past and present societies. The History curriculum will train you to be alert, critical, and inquisitive, able to identify your sources’ biases and to contextualize their positions. Studying a broad range of places and times, you will become an informed global citizen, able to participate in public life with articulate, effective, and persuasive arguments. As you master a wide body of knowledge, you will gain cultural literacy and sensitivity, aware of your particular perspective while respecting others’ backgrounds and points of view. Your own research will demonstrate that historical interpretation is always changing, while your ability to make sense of complex problems will make you an effective decision-maker. When you graduate, you will be prepared to follow any career you choose, armed with knowledge, skepticism, empathy, and eloquence.